FAA Aviation Mechanic General (AMG)Regulations, Records and Human FactorsEasy

A private pilot who owns a single-engine airplane wants to perform maintenance on it himself between annual inspections. Per 14 CFR Part 43, Appendix A, which task is he authorized to perform as preventive maintenance?

  1. AMaking a major repair to a wing spar
  2. BRepairing a landing gear strut
  3. COverhauling the engine
  4. DReplacing worn seat belts
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: D. Replacing worn seat belts

14 CFR Part 43, Appendix A(c) lists specific preventive maintenance items a pilot-owner may perform, including replacing safety belts. Structural repairs, engine overhauls, and major repairs require a certificated mechanic or repair station.

Why the other options are wrong

  • A. Major structural repairs are excluded from preventive maintenance.
  • B. Landing gear strut repair is beyond preventive maintenance limits.
  • C. Engine overhaul requires certificated personnel, not preventive maintenance.

Preventive Maintenance (Part 43 App. A)

Simple, low-risk maintenance tasks a certificated pilot may legally perform on an aircraft they own or operate.

  • Listed items include replacing safety belts, servicing wheel bearings, and changing tires.
  • Pilot must be the owner/operator to use this privilege.
  • Entries must still be made in the aircraft records per 43.9.

Memory trick: 'Pilots Patch Simple Stuff' — small fixes only.

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